Tensions are escalating between the United States and Greenland as a high-profile US delegation prepares to visit the autonomous Danish territory. The visit comes amidst President Donald Trump's repeated expressions of interest in the US acquiring Greenland, a move that has been met with strong opposition from both Greenlandic and Danish officials.

Second Lady Usha Vance, wife of Vice President JD Vance, will lead the US delegation. Accompanied by one of her three children, she will be joined by National Security Advisor Mike Waltz and Energy Secretary Chris Wright. The delegation's itinerary includes visits to historical sites, learning about Greenlandic heritage, and attending the Avannaata Qimussersua, the territory's national dogsled race. According to a White House statement, "Ms. Vance and the delegation are excited to witness this monumental race and celebrate Greenlandic culture and unity."

Adding a layer of complexity to the visit, Mike Waltz and Chris Wright are expected to tour a US military base in Greenland. This aspect of the trip has drawn particular scrutiny, with Greenland's Prime Minister Mute B. Egede labeling the US delegation's trip as "highly aggressive." In an interview with the Greenlandic newspaper Sermitsiaq, Egede questioned the purpose of Waltz's presence, suggesting it was a demonstration of power over Greenland.

President Trump's persistent interest in annexing Greenland has put the territory under an international spotlight. Greenland holds significant reserves of rare earth minerals, crucial for high-tech industries, making it a strategically valuable location. Trump has repeatedly suggested the US could take the island by force or economic coercion, despite firm rejection from Denmark and Greenland.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has emphasized the need for cooperation based on "the fundamental values of sovereignty and respect between countries and peoples." While Greenlandic politicians have consistently opposed annexation, they have expressed openness to deals with the United States regarding rare earth mining, tourism expansion, and stronger diplomatic ties.

Adding to the controversy, Donald Trump, Jr. visited Greenland in January, posting on social media, "Greenland is an incredible place, and the people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our nation. We will protect it, and cherish it, from a very vicious outside world. Make Greenland Great Again!"

Despite the White House presenting Vance's visit as a cultural one, the timing and composition of the delegation have raised concerns about the US's intentions in Greenland. Jens-Frederik Nielsen, likely to be Greenland's next leader, criticized the timing of the visit as showing "a lack of respect" for the Greenlandic population.

The visit unfolds against a backdrop of shifting political dynamics in Greenland. While Egede's ruling left-wing party IAInuit Ataqatigiit was defeated in recent parliamentary elections, he remains prime minister until a new governing coalition is formed.

Brian Hughes, spokesperson for the White House national security council, said the US team is "confident that this visit presents an opportunity to build on partnerships that respects Greenland's self-determination and advances economic cooperation". "This is a visit to learn about Greenland, its culture, history, and people and to attend a dogsled race the United States is proud to sponsor, plain and simple," Mr Hughes added.